By: Aminata Turay
Sierra Leone’s Vice President, Dr. Mohamed Juldeh Jalloh, who also serves as Chairman of the Sierra Leone Correctional Council, on Tuesday, 31st March 2026, commissioned a newly constructed administrative building for the Sierra Leone Correctional Services (SLCS) at New England in Freetown. The event marked what he described as a deeply personal milestone in the country’s security sector reform journey.
Addressing officers, dignitaries, and stakeholders, the Vice President reflected on the transformation from an outdated facility that had been in use since 1961 to a modern structure designed to support the dignity and efficiency of correctional officers. He noted that the project forms part of a broader modernization drive he initiated in 2018 to improve working conditions and restore pride within the institution.
Vice President Jalloh emphasized that the reform agenda goes beyond infrastructure to focus on the welfare and professional growth of officers. He highlighted government efforts to improve salaries, provide uniforms, and expand training and career development opportunities.
Sharing his hands-on leadership approach, he told officers that he takes a keen interest in their professional progress, stressing that promotions would now be based on merit, discipline, and training rather than favoritism. He stated, “If you want to lead, you must show discipline, dedication, and development.”
He also challenged correctional officers to see themselves as agents of change tasked with transforming lives within the prison system, emphasizing that disciplined and professional service is critical to national development. He assured that the government will continue investing in the sector despite economic challenges and called on officers to match these efforts with commitment and integrity.
Director General of SLCS, Joseph John Senessie, described the commissioning as a historic turning point, noting that it ended decades of operating from an outdated facility and fulfilled a long-held vision of a modern, efficient workspace. He expressed gratitude to President Dr. Julius Maada Bio, the Vice President, the Minister of Internal Affairs, and partners. Paying tribute to the Chief of General Staff of the Republic of Sierra Leone Armed Forces, Major General Sahr David Tamba Ngaujah, for his vision, he described the new building as a symbol of reform and a foundation for the next phase of growth.
